Many homeowners try to keep their swimming pools open as long as possible. After all, it’s a great way to entertain friends and keep the kids occupied during the lazy summer months. But alas, there will come a time when the pool must be shut down for the season.
Properly preparing your pool for the colder months is crucial in maintaining its quality. It will also make the process much easier when it’s time to re-open your pool for the summer. Here are some tips on how to close your pool — the right way — for its long winter break.
1. Get the timing right
Did you know closing your pool too early can trigger algae growth? In Ontario, homeowners typically don’t winterize until very late into the summer. If your pool is heated, you can probably get away with waiting until October. A good rule of thumb is to wait until the water is consistently lower than 18°C. If you’re still not sure about timing, speak to your pool maintenance professional. By getting the timing just right, you’ll save yourself a lot of headaches next spring.
2. Give the pool a final cleaning and water balance
A thorough cleaning before closing will help prevent algae and bacterial growth. Brush the sides and bottom of your pool, then vacuum out all debris. For best results, consider professional cleaning. Many pool installation companies offer winterization packages. Have the pool professionally tested and balance the water as per the instructions: winter shock pool and add winter closing kit.
Although a good end-of-season cleaning is crucial, it’s also important to maintain good cleaning practices throughout the summer:
- Use an automatic pool cleaner every day or vacuum at least once a week
- Keep your filtration system on all the time for proper circulation
- Make sure your filter media is always clean; sand filters should be back-washed weekly and cleaned with ‘Fast Flo’
- Cartridge filters should also be cleaned regularly and de-greased with ‘Filter-Nu’
Meanwhile, don’t forget to clean the scum line around the pool. Scum lines have a demand for chlorine, which means it can use up all your chlorine residual. Use non-abrasive cleaners like ‘Tile-X’ or ‘Vinyl Plus’ that are specifically designed for pools and won’t etch liners.
3. Remove pool fixtures
All pool fixtures must be removed for the winter. Otherwise, rust and weather damage can ruin them. Carefully detach all ladders and diving boards from the pool walls. Store these items in your pool house, storage shed or other weather-proof enclosure.
4. Remove excess water
Force all water out of the suction and return lines, then add antifreeze and plug them up to avoid water accumulation. If you let water sit over winter, the liquid could freeze and burst your lines. Don’t forget to remove water from the pool skimmer, too.
5. Winterize pump and heater
Proper winterization of larger pool elements is best left to the professionals. They can safely prepare your pump, heater, and filter for the cold winter months. Although the upfront cost of professional winterization may seem like a burden, the investment will be well worth it in the long run.
6. Cover it up
Investing in a good blanket is key to protecting your pool over the winter months. Use proper clips, waterbags and cables to secure your winter cover.
7. Wait for spring
By following the above tips, you’ll avoid any unwelcome surprises come spring. Use the winter months to think ahead to the following season. Take some time to reevaluate your pool maintenance package and schedule next year’s service visits. Solda Pools is available during the off-seasons to address all your concerns. We also offer opening services to get your backyard oasis ready for the spring/summer season!
For more information on closing and winterizing your pool, call Solda Pools at 289-201-2351 or contact us here.